Precision Linear Motion

Nexen’s Precision Linear Motion technology is a combination of very high precision linear drive systems, compact harmonic gearheads, and high force brakes located at the drive motor or the linear guide system. Nexen’s Roller Pinion System (RPS), Harmonic Gearhead (HG), and Eclipse Servo Brake (SBP) can be combined to form a complete, very high precision, zero backlash drive and brake system. With roots in the clutch and brake industry, Nexen provides nearly unlimited options to hold or emergency stop loads in linear applications with Rail Brakes (RB), Rod Locks (RLSS), and Ball Screw Brakes (BSB) added to the product lineup.

The Roller Pinion System (RPS) is based on an innovative pinion consisting of bearing-supported rollers and a unique tooth profile. This unique drive system provides very high positional accuracy, near-zero backlash, virtually no cumulative error, low-velocity ripple, unlimited length, very high speeds, high rigidity, low noise, low maintenance, corrosion resistance, long life, and 99% efficiency. This opens up new machine design possibilities and provides the capability to achieve much higher levels of performance.

Nexen’s RB Series of linear profile guide rail brakes uses spring force to secure the load in holding applications. Superior response time, high force for stopping, and holding in e-stop and power-off situations. Each RB brake clamps directly onto the center of the guide rail to provide positive braking and holding in all axes, with no effect on bearing surfaces. These profile rail brakes hold position accurately by reducing drive train backlash and elasticity.

Nexen’s Static Rod Locks deliver precision holding with virtually no backlash, providing high accuracy in demanding applications. These spring-engaged, air-released units come in both ISO and NFPA sizes. The Rod Lock’s large clamping surface ensures high clamping/holding force and Nexen offers models for use on a pneumatic cylinder or as a stand-alone unit on a guide rod. The design is sealed and features a natural brushed aluminum finish or a corrosion-resistant, anodized finish.

Spring engaged, air released servo motor brakes mount to the shaft end of servo motors up to 20 horsepower. The brake acts as an adapter between dissimilar mounting features. The brake bore accepts the motor shaft that is fixed inside the brake with a split hub/shaft collar. This brake is a high-torque, zero backlash device.

Ball Screw brakes provide reliable holding in a compact package. During a power loss the motor has no holding torque allowing the ball screw to back drive and the load to drop. Ball screw brakes connect to the machined end of the ball screw to prevent back driving, load drops and equipment damage during a power loss.
Holding force up to 125 Nm (1100 in-lbs.)